Tips for selecting gifts for nursing home residents

Sunday

Dec 22, 2013 at 11:42 AM

As a relative or friend of someone in a long-term facility, one often does not realize a visit and gift is the difference between night and day for the resident, according to officials with the Grand Gateway Area on Aging in Big Cabin.

As a relative or friend of someone in a long-term facility, one often does not realize a visit and gift is the difference between night and day for the resident, according to officials with the Grand Gateway Area on Aging in Big Cabin.

"Even if the resident is not emotionally stable, seeing a familiar face can sometimes take them back to a more serene and placid time when the bulk of life was not filled with medical, financial and legal aspects," said Ombudsman Supervisor Lahona Young.

"Are you wondering what to buy a loved one living in a residential care, assisted living or a nursing home? Are you wondering how to get through a visit in a facility? Is it awkward to visit when there are so many distractions with so many other people present? Present is the key word. Let us be present along with the present we purchase," she said.

Here are some suggestions for gifts and visiting a loved one in a long-term care facility:

• For someone who can still communicate with friends, a private phone to use.

• For someone who uses a wheelchair or walker, a basket made especially for these or lap blanket.

• Personal care items such as small hand mirrors, hand cream without perfume and gift certificates to the facility beauty shop.

• Calendars and watches with big numbers.

• Music that a loved one used to listen to may stir up some good memories.

• Books on tape or large print books.

• Before bringing food items, check with the director of nursing to see about restrictions. These items should be given in a container that residents can open and close easily.

• If thinking of purchasing clothing, ask the staff for suggestions. What would be practical and pretty? Someone may need an easy-on, easy-off outfit and someone else may not.

"Focus on a loved one’s abilities, rather than on limitations. Don’t give advice unless asked. Overlook weaknesses and focus on the strengths. In other words there may be some awkward moments to ignore. Focus on the good and be cheerful," suggested Young. "Listen! Listen! Let the resident talk. Buy the best present and visit."

For more about being an Ombudsman volunteer and advocate for residents who live in long-term care facilities, call Young or Elaine Evans at 1-800-482-4594.

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